Klassen, Katharina Fast (1926-2000)

Mennonite Brethren Herald obituary: 2000 Sep 22 p. 28

Birth date: 1926 Feb 6

text of obituary:

KATHARINA KLASSEN

Katharina (Katie) Klassen of Black Creek, B.C. passed away June 5. She was born Feb. 6, 1926 to Jacob and Katharina Fast in Gnadenheim, Russia, Her parents died in Russia, leaving Katie to care for her siblings until they went to an orphanage. She fled to Germany. Here, she worked in a photography studio. She was baptized May 19, 1945 in Gronau, Germany, In 1948 she moved to Black Creek, joining Black Creek MB Church in 1949. She also spent time in Vancouver, where she worked in a photography studio. She married David Klassen of Black Creek Aug. 31, 1952. The family enjoyed camping, travelling, working and playing together. David was killed in a logging accident Dec. 20, 1969. Many people in the church and community helped her to raise her family, During this time, her faith in God became very strong. She met regularly with other women for Bible study, prayer and support. She kept a large garden and provided for her family and friends. She gave generously to the church, served for many years as a deaconess in the church and volunteered at Camp Homewood. She loved to play table games, In 1993 she added a self-contained apartment to her house so that she could remain at home while her youngest son and his family lived beside her. She also received care from Joemelin, a caregiver from the Philippines. Katie was diagnosed with Lewy Body disease and spent the last 3 years in St. Joseph's Extended Care. Through her struggles, she had an unwavering faith in God and looked forward to being in heaven. Predeceased by David, 2 brothers and 2 sisters, she is mourned by sons Walt of Campbell River, B.C., Ernie of Black Creek, Albert of Vancouver, and Vic and Stan, both of Black Creek; 16 grandchildren; 2 sisters and stepmother Rita Fast. The funeral was June 10 in Black Creek MB Church, with Barry Falk ministering.